The Critical Stakeholders Investigation Panel has commenced town hall meetings to investigate the root causes of erratic power supply to Kebbi by the Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company.

The panel was set up by the Kebbi government to examine the lingering power challenges and recommend lasting solutions.

The panel comprises government officials, representatives of civil society organisations, trade unions, artisans, and KEDCO officials, among others.

The panel is engaging electricity stakeholders across the state’s four emirates of Gwandu, Argungu, Yauri and Zuru to deliberate on the way forward.

Panel chairman Usman Abubakar-Gwandu, who led the delegation to separate town hall meetings at Yauri and Zuru, said the committee had so far visited three emirates to seek the counsel of royal fathers and to hear from the public and KEDCO officials.

He said, “Governor Nasir Idris mandated the committee to investigate the causes of the persistent epileptic power supply and to find practical, lasting solutions to ensure residents enjoy 24-hour electricity.”

Mr Abubakar-Gwandu added that the committee would meet with critical stakeholders and KEDCO officials to discuss the causes of the power supply problems and propose resolutions and a clear way forward.

The Emir of Yauri, Zayyanu Abdullahi, and the Emir of Zuru, Sanusi Mika’ilu, described the lingering power shortage as sabotage against the government, blaming the lukewarm attitude of KEDCO personnel.

Mr Mika’ilu advocated that the state government develop a four-year electricity master plan to allow time for a permanent solution.

Some emirate members also criticised KEDCO’s conduct, citing poor supply, estimated billing, and failure to replace damaged equipment. They noted that NEPA previously replaced poles, transformers, and other installations, but now, with KEDCO in charge, such responsibilities have been left to the government and communities.

They urged the company to be fair, sincere and transparent in its dealings with customers, adding that KEDCO’s demands on both the government and consumers were endless.

A deputy corps commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Florence Adepojiu, advised the public to protect critical infrastructure provided by the government at all levels.

KEDCO’s Yauri district manager, represented by Iliya Danjuma, said he had noted all the complaints and challenges and assured that he would forward the same to his superiors for prompt action. 

(NAN)